South Beats, Croydon

More of a wine bar than a pub feel, but not uncomfortably so. A large range of Belgian beers served plus a few continental lagers but also Dark Star Hophead served in marked lined glasses. Served slightly cold though in my opinion, however as a light beer it can stand up to this. Narrow layout due to the side bar, opens out slightly either end, but not a big place. Seating comprises a couple of sofas, some stools at drinking shelves made of reclaimed timbers and some small "pouffes" ( small soft stools without backs....I'm sure that's what they are called). Some exposed rather ordinary brickwork, slate effect floors and some stained timber cladding. The bar has a multi coloured effect wooden veneer. A jazzy/bluesy soundtrack, laid back kind of feel. Certainly not traditional or pubby but its ok in its way. Belgian beer tasting sessions are advertised.

Site of the old Beer Circus but has had a lot of work done. It's now a small attractive laid back chilled out bar with a few sofas and stools. There's a downstairs area that can be hired for private functions. The guv'nor is clearly passionate about the venture and happy to chat, including about the possibility of another real ale pump if turnover justifies it. Just one real ale at present, Dark Star Hophead, but it was in excellent condition and just £2.70 a pint (20% off Monday-Thursday). Draught beers included Becks, Leffe, Staropramen, Budvar and Budvar Dark, plus there were some interesting bottles in the chiller cabinet. The front area is quite bright as the large windows face out onto the High Street, so you can watch the world go by as you're enjoying a drink. Good place for a beer and deserves to be a success.

Small comfortable street corner pub selling about 3 real ales with Dark Star Hophead on as a regular.Local CAMRA pub of the year 2005.Note.Watch the opening hours as this pub only opens in the evenings most days of the week.15 mins from East/West Croydon stations.